A young British man tragically lost his life after plunging approximately 200 feet while skiing in the French Alps, an inquest has revealed. Joshua Henry Miles Davies, aged 25, sustained fatal injuries following the incident at the resort of Villaroger, located in the Savoie department within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of southeastern France.
Details of the Incident
Mr Davies, a resident of Malbrook Road in Putney, southwest London, reportedly ventured off-piste on December 18, 2025, choosing to descend a steep and narrow passage. According to contemporaneous reports, he lost his balance and fell, ultimately coming to rest in snow deposits below. Despite the swift response and efforts of the ski patrol and an emergency helicopter crew, he could not be saved.
Risks of Off-Piste Skiing
Off-piste skiing carries heightened risks, particularly early in the season when snow conditions tend to be harder and less deep. At an altitude of 1,200 meters, Villaroger is the lowest of the mountainside villages in the Les Arcs area. It is a popular destination among British skiers and snowboarders, known for its quieter atmosphere, lacking nightclubs and featuring only a handful of restaurants.
Inquest Proceedings
Assistant Coroner Jean Harkin opened and subsequently adjourned the inquest into Mr Davies' death at Inner West London Coroner's Court today. She stated: 'We are awaiting some documents from both here and abroad. A review will be held on July 27, 2026. At that review date, I will check which evidence has been received and what further evidence is needed.'
